The Reid Thompson Library has been at odds with an invasive pest throughout the winter months, and the library is getting set to take action.
Bedbugs are small, wingless insects that prove to be more of a nuisance than a health hazard. Environment, Public Health and Safety with the Government of Saskatchewan states that the tiny creatures are not known to transmit disease, but their bites can cause itching or irritation.
The Reid Thompson Library Board has issued the following statement:
“Reid-Thompson Public Library has had a recent issue with a member of the public inadvertently bringing bedbugs into the library. The situation with that particular patron has been resolved.
The Reid-Thompson Public Library Board, the City of Humboldt, and Wapiti Regional Library have been working together to mitigate any potential spread of the insects in the library. To that end, we have sought the advice of and contracted with a professional exterminator to apply a recommended program of treatments. We have received assurance that bedbugs are not considered a Public Health risk but are a nuisance that must be dealt with appropriately.
We assure the general public that due diligence is being exercised to ensure that all patrons that continue to make use of our facility can do so with comfort and peace of mind. Unfortunately, bedbugs have become a reality in our community and public institutions must deal with these issues as they arise.”
The Environment, Public Health and Safety website states that bedbugs spread when infested items such as clothing, mattresses, books, pictures, electronics, backpacks, luggage or furniture are moved from one location to another.
Until the incidence of the pests is resolved, patrons are advised to check library materials to ensure they are free from pests prior to transporting them to other locations.
More details can be found on the Environment, Public Health and Safety website.